Jump to content

SDF–Syrian transitional government clashes (2025–present)

Add links
Page extended-confirmed-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

SDF–Syrian transitional government clashes
Part of the Syrian conflict, Eastern Syria insurgency, the aftermath of the fall of the Assad regime

Military situation in October 2025
Date2 August 2025 – present (4 months, 3 weeks and 4 days)
Location
Along the internal border between the DAANES and Syrian transitional government, Syria, particularly near Dayr Hafir, al-Khafsah, and Deir ez-Zor
Result Ongoing, ceasefire on 7 October 2025
Belligerents
Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria Syria Syrian transitional government[a]
Supported by:
Turkey[1]
Arab Tribal and Clan Forces
Islamic State (claimed by SDF)[2]
Commanders and leaders
Mazloum Abdi
Ferhad Şamî
Sipan Hamo
Shorsh Tal Aran[3]
Sozdar Derik[4]
Khalil Qahraman[4]
Alif Muhammad[5]		 Ahmed al-Sharaa
Murhaf Abu Qasra
Ali Noureddine al-Naasan
Mohammed al-Jassem[6]
Abu Hatem Shaqra[4]
Motasem Abbas[4]
Mohammed Abdul Ghanis
Units involved

Supported by:

Foreign ISIS fighters (claimed by SDF)[2]
Strength
At least 1,000 in Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafieh, Aleppo[13] At least 2,000 on the northern front[4]
Casualties and losses

Per SOHR:
2 killed[b]
10+ injured[c]
1 vehicle seized[17]
3 injured[d]

Per SDF:
2 killed[e]
17 injured[f]
8 injured[g]

Per Syrian transitional government:
1+ killed [h]
9+ injured[i]

Per SOHR:
11 killed[j]
9+ injured[k]
Several vehicles damaged[l]
2 drones downed[m]
1 killed[17]
3 injured[17]

Per Syrian transitional government:
10–12 killed[n]
9–11+ injured[o]

Per SDF:
2 killed[p]
3+ injured[q]
1 vehicle seized[47]
3 drones downed[r]
Civilians:
At least 12–13 killed and c. 80 injured (SOHR, SDF and Syrian transitional government claims combined)

The SDF–Syrian transitional government clashes are a series of armed skirmishes between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the post-Assad Syrian Army, which is mainly composed of anti-Assadist and Sunni Islamist opposition forces originating from the Syrian civil war,[49] along the internal border between the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES[s]) and the Syrian transitional government. As of October 2025, the clashes have been mostly sporadic and limited to exchanges of artillery shelling and small- to medium-arms fire in Dayr Hafir, Manbij, al-Khafsah, Sheikh Maqsood, Deir ez-Zor, and their surrounding areas.[50] The clashes, in particular the siege of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah, resulted in the signing of a comprehensive ceasefire agreement on 7 October 2025, which has been violated on several occasions.[51]

Arab tribal forces and local gunmen led by the Syrian Army's 86th Division also participated in the clashes in the Deir ez-Zor Governorate.[52][53]

Background

10 March agreement

See also: Manbij offensive (2024), 2024 Kobani clashes, East Aleppo offensive (2024–2025), and Syrian peace process § 10 March agreement

During the fall of the Assad regime, a period marked by instability and uncertainty, Turkey and its affiliated militant group, the Syrian National Army (SNA), launched various offensives against Kurdish-controlled areas east of the Euphrates. Following months of fighting, which stalled near the Tishrin Dam, and an SDF counteroffensive in December 2024, SDF leader Mazloum Abdi and Syrian transitional government leader Ahmed al-Sharaa signed the U.S.-backed 10 March agreement,[t] which implemented a country-wide ceasefire and laid out principles for the integration of the DAANES into the new Syrian government.[50][54][55] It envisaged equal representation for minorities in the political process and proposed integrating the SDF's military and civilian structures into the new Syrian state, while allowing the SDF to retain de facto control over border posts and oil fields in Kurdish areas.[56] A follow-up agreement in April, which was reportedly also brokered with American involvement, established a joint security framework for the Kurdish enclaves in Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafiyeh, Aleppo. The neighborhoods remained under the control of the Asayish and several smaller Aleppo-based Kurdish groups.[22]

Diplomatic tensions

Delays in implementing the 10 March agreement, with both sides accusing each other of obstruction, along with the cancellation of the SDF–Syria talks in Paris on 25 July and again on 9–10 August, heightened hostilities between the DAANES and the Syrian government, which, according to Hawar News and the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), was facing increasing Turkish pressure.[57][58][59][60] This pressure stemmed from Ankara's long-standing opposition to an autonomous Kurdish entity on its border, fearing it could fuel Kurdish nationalism in Turkish Kurdistan. Since 2015, Turkey has waged military campaigns against Kurdish forces in Syria and has, after the formation of the new Syrian transitional government, repeatedly threatened further invasions unless they integrate into the state institutions.[50][60][61]

Integration of SNA militias and jihadists

The integration of SNA militias and Salafi jihadist fighters (including foreigners) during the Syrian Revolution Victory Conference into the new Syrian Army, along with the appointment of their commanders, was heavily criticized by the SDF, as the sides had in part fought earlier in the year and throughout the Syrian Civil War as adversaries.[62][63] Kurds within the DAANES were particularly critical, as SNA factions had been reported to engage in kidnappings of civilians, looting, beatings, and other human rights violations against Kurds,[64][65][66] while minorities like the Alawites and Druze expressed their hostility towards the presence of Salafi jihadist foreign fighters, further leading to tensions between the sides.[63]

Government abuses and decentralization demands

The New Arab and The Insider also stated that the increasing tensions between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government were exacerbated in part by the Western Syria clashes and Southern Syria Clashes, in which government affiliated forces conducted a series of war crimes and massacres against Alawite, Christian and Druze civilians.[56][42][67] This, in turn, damaged both the domestic and international standing of the government and intensified calls from various groups for minority rights and federalization.[56] The transitional government was also criticized for failing to ensure minority representation, a key stipulation of the March agreement. Few government officials, and no senior military or security commanders, were drawn from minority communities.[68] In wake of the events the DAANES organized the Conference on Kurdish Unity and Cooperation in Western Kurdistan and the Unity of Components conference in Hasakah, during which Kurdish, Druze, Alawite and Arab tribal leaders, including Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri and Sheikh Ghazal Ghazal, expressed support for a decentralized Syria.[69][70] Both conferences were criticized by the transitional government for “violating the 10 March agreement,”[70][71] and the Unity of Components conference, in particular, was cited as a reason for the cancellation of the SDF–Syria talks in Paris.[68] The crisis in Suwayda reportedly "cracked Damascus-SDF relations."[56]

Blockade of Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafiyeh

At the beginning of July, tensions in Aleppo increased when government forces blocked fuel supplies from reaching the Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsood and Ashrafiyeh. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) described the blockade as a continuation of "old regime tactics."[72] In August, Nouri Sheikho, Deputy Head of the General Council of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh, told Kurdistan24 that tensions had risen in recent days following the "Unity of Components" conference in Hasakah.[73]

Postponed elections

See also: 2025 Syrian parliamentary election § Regional postponements

In August, government officials confirmed that al-Sharaa was determined to pursue a centralized government, contradicting the federalization framework set out by the Kurds as a prerequisite for integration.[56] Later that month the Syrian transitional government announced that elections would not be held in the Druze-controlled governorate of Suwayda and areas under the control of the DAANES, namely Hasakah and Raqqa, for "safety reasons".[74][75] In response the DAANES affirmed that the planned elections are not democratic and "do not in any way reflect the will of the Syrian people". It criticised the characterization of areas under DAANES control as "unsafe" and argued that it would "justify the policy of denial" against more than five million Syrians. Further it called on organisations like the United Nations not to recognize these elections.[76]

Increasing military deployments

See also: Eastern Syria insurgency

At the same time, some government-aligned members of Arab tribes in Deir ez-Zor particularly from the Al-Shaitat and Al-Baggara tribes called for "jihad and general mobilization" against the SDF and declared their “full support for other tribes and clans in backing the government of the Syrian Arab Republic.”[12][77] This development raised concerns that Arab tribes could be used by the transitional government against the SDF in a manner similar to their earlier use against the Druze in Suwayda.[12] Coinciding increased Islamic State (ISIS) activity prompted additional SDF deployments along the Euphrates.[13] The Alma Research and Education Center explained that the SDF sent "massive" military reinforcements to the Deir ez-Zor area to "fill the security vacuum" left as a result of the extensive withdrawal of American coalition forces. This was seen by some as "a move that directly contradicts the spirit of the [10 March] agreement", Alma Research says.[13] Regional reports also claimed that Damascus had amassed as many as 50,000 troops near Palmyra, with "orders to advance on Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor unless the SDF cedes control",[78] further heightening tensions along the SDF–STG contact line.[50][79][80] Government reinforcements were also regularly deployed to the vicinity of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah in what was described as a "show-of-force operation" intended to raise fears of a possible field escalation.[81]

Clashes

See also: Syrian peace process § Implementation and violations

In the months following the agreement, the Syrian transitional government engaged in several armed clashes with the SDF, primarily in Deir ez-Zor province, which is divided between the two sides along the Euphrates River, and near the town of Dayr Hafir, where a 20-meter-wide canal separates SDF and Syrian Army forces to the north.[82] In turn both parties accused each other of violating the 10 March agreement.[50][83][84]

August 2025

The first clashes were reported on 2 August 2025 near Dayr Hafir and al-Khafsah.[50][85] Syria's state-owned Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) claimed that four Syrian Army soldiers and three civilians were injured during the fighting, and made the SDF solely responsible for the incident.[41]

On 4 August, the SDF accused government-linked factions of attacking four of its positions in the village of Al-Imam, near Manbij.[86][87][88]

On 12 August, one Syrian Army soldier was killed in clashes with the SDF near Dayr Hafir.[54][34][26] In addition the government's Ministry of Information claimed that two civilians were killed and three injured.[89] Coinciding with the clashes the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) warned of a 'wider conflict' if the US does not remain fully engaged in preventing the collapse of the March agreement.[50]

On 13 August, the Internal Security Forces (Asayish) claimed that an "interim government-affiliated" drone attack wounded two of its forces in the Kurdish enclave of Sheikh Maqsoud, Aleppo. The Syrian transitional government's Ministry of Defense denied the accusations.[22] That same day the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on a "wide deployment of armoured vehicles, and medium and heavy weapons" by the Syrian Army along the frontline, while the SDF raised its military readiness and reinforced its positions as well.[90]

On 14 August, clashes broke out between the SDF and Syrian Army forces in Deir ez-Zor, amid reports of government armour heading eastwards. Machine guns and mortar fire were reported, injuring some Syrian Army soldiers as well as local fishermen.[42] The pro-government news outlet Enab Baladi reported that one civilian was killed.[53] On the same day the SOHR reported on tribal fighters, led by Abu Hatem Shaqra's 86th Division, which abducted six off-duty SDF fighters in a pharmacy in the town of Gharanij. The following clashes, which included mortar fire coming from government-controlled areas, lead to the death of one tribal fighter and injury of three more, while one SDF vehicle was seized. Two kidnapped members were released later on the same day, while the four others were freed on 16 August. The SDF increased its military presence in the region with over 100 military vehicles and YAT special forces after the events.[17][52][91]

On 24 August, the SDF reported that "armed groups affiliated with the Damascus government" launched an attack on a military post of the al-Kasra Military Council in the town of al-Junaynah, Deir ez-Zor's western countryside, violating the ceasefire.[92][7]

On 31 August, another round of clashes was reported in Tel Ma'az, near Dayr Hafir, between the SDF and the Syrian Army.[93]

September

Around September, Turkey staged its first airstrikes in months on Kurdish positions, and the Kurds dug new defensive tunnels. Mottassem Abbas, commander of the Syrian Army's 80th Division, said to Reuters in an interview: "We're sending more men and weapons to reinforce [the contact line with the SDF]."[4]

On 10 September, tensions flared,[94] as the SOHR reported mutual shelling in Maskanah between the SDF and the Turkish-backed Suleiman Shah Brigade, a militant group that had been integrated into the Syrian Army as the 62nd Division. No casualties were reported.[6][95][96] The FDD reported that clashes on the same day caused the death of two civilians and injury of three more.[61]

On 14 September, clashes broke out between the SDF and Syrian transitional government forces near the al-Asharah-Darnaj bridge. According to a statement by the SDF, the "assault by armed groups linked to the Syrian government" was aimed at securing river crossings for smugglers, a claim confirmed by local sources cited by the SOHR.[97][98][99]

On 18 September, local sources reported that Syrian transitional government forces and the SDF exchanged small arms fire near al Baij, Aleppo Governorate. No military casualties have been reported. Another local source reported that a Turkish drone flew over Dayr Hafer approximately two hours before the engagement in nearby al Baij, possibly conducting reconnaissance.[1]

Dayr Hafir massacre

On 20 September, the SOHR reported mutual shelling and drone strikes in Dayr Hafir, following an attack on SDF positions by the Syrian Army using drones.[85] In turn, the SOHR reported on the same day that three civilians were injured by shelling from members of the Syrian Army. According to the SDF, the assault on their positions began with drone strikes, followed by heavy artillery shelling that directly targeted homes, killing seven civilians, including women and children, and wounding four others. The SDF held the Syrian Ministry of Defense directly responsible for the 'massacre' and considered its statements of refute "a killing of the truth and a blatant attempt to evade responsibility."[100][101] The group added that it also repelled a separate drone attack by "Damascus government gunmen" on one of its positions in Dayr Hafer, forcing the attackers to retreat.[102] On 21 September, the SOHR updated its casualty figures, reporting that five women and two children were killed, while four others, including three women, were injured in the attacks by the Syrian Army.[103] On 22 September, the SOHR updated its casualty figures once again, as an injured infant succumbed to his wounds, bringing the total number of civilians killed by the Syrian Army to eight.[104]

On 22 September, the General Command of the Asayish said in a statement, that they thwarted an assault on the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods in Aleppo by "rogue factions affiliated with the Ministry of Defense of the Damascus Government." The Asayish claimed to have killed one and injured three of the attackers and to have seized their vehicle, while also downing a drone.[45][105][47] The SOHR supported the SDF's account, describing the government's assault as a "sneak attempt [...] to attack a military checkpoint of [the] SDF."[26] On the next day the SOHR reported that the injured, who were taken as captives by the SDF, were released following an agreement between the two sides.[106]

On 23 September, the SOHR reported that four children were seriously wounded after Syrian government forces shelled the village of Zubeida, near Dayr Hafir, with indiscriminate artillery fire.[107] Later that same day one SDF fighter was killed, while another was injured by two kamikaze drones belonging to governmental forces.[14][19][108]

On 24 September, two fighters of the Syrian Army's 80th Division were killed by SDF sniper fire, according to reports from both the SOHR and SANA.[27][16][35]

On 27 September, the M15 highway between Aleppo and Raqqa, as well as roads leading to Dayr Hafir, were closed by forces affiliated with the Syrian army, coinciding with the entry of Turkish trucks and convoys into Kuweires Military Airport.[109]

On 28 September, SDF drones targeted two government positions in Al-Qashlah village, eastern Aleppo countryside, after both sides exchanged artillery fire near the Tishrin Dam earlier.[110] Areas west of the dam had been handed over to the Syrian transitional government by the SDF earlier in the year under the March agreement, which was intended to prevent further SNA attacks, allow for joint patrols with the SDF, and neutralize the dam as a military target.[111][112]

October

By the beginning of October, Kurdish news outlets reported that the Syrian Army had escalated measures by constructing earthen barriers and blocking roads on the outskirts of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah, as well as barricading streets and establishing positions inside residential buildings.[113][114][115] The SOHR confirmed the Syrian army's military buildup near the neighbourhoods.[116] Furthermore the Syrian government's Ministry of Defense sent a convoy of reinforcements, comprising dozens of vehicles carrying weapons and soldiers, to frontlines with the SDF around Dayr Hafer and the Tishrin Dam. The SOHR added that the reinforcements included non-Syrian fighters.[11]

On 1 October, clashes broke out near the Tishrin Dam after pro-government forces attempted to infiltrate SDF military positions. The attack was repelled, forcing the assailants to withdraw. The locality was shelled by government forces earlier that day.[117][118]

On 5 October, heavy clashes were reported between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government near Dayr Hafir and the Tishrin Dam.[119] Earlier that day, the fighting was preceded by two drone strikes carried out by the Syrian Army, one targeting an agricultural tractor on the road between Dayr Hafir and Aleppo, and another striking an unidentified target; injuring one civilian.[120][121] The SDF claimed that three fighters and four Asayish members were injured during the clashes and that the government targeted residential buildings with artillery fire.[21][122] The state-run SANA agency, described the SDF claims as "false and misleading."[122] On the same day, Rudaw and the SOHR reported that Syrian government forces closed the last remaining highway crossing near Ma'adan and Ithriya between DAANES- and government-controlled areas, following the earlier closure of roads leading to Dayr Hafir on 27 September.[123][124][125] In retaliation the SDF closed all river crossings into government areas across the Euphrates.[126]

Siege of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah

See also: October 2025 Aleppo clashes and SDF–Syrian transitional government clashes (2025–present) § Ceasefire agreement

Escalations peaked in early October during the siege of the Kurdish-majority neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashafiyah, Aleppo.[127]

On the early hours of 6 October, an explosion of unknown origin occurred in the Ashrafiyah neighborhood, damaging a hospital.[128] Later that day the government closed all seven roads leading into Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah,[128][129] placing the two quarters "under a complete siege."[130] The Transitional Government provided no explanation for the move. On the same evening, large protests by local residents took place in front of Syrian military positions, during which protesters chanted Mazloum Abdi's name, demanded an end to the blockade, and called on the SDF to "liberate" Aleppo.[131][132] The protest was met with live ammunition and tear gas, according to the SOHR and several Kurdish outlets.[133][134][135][136] Hawar News said that when the protest escalated, residents seized an armored vehicle belonging to Syrian transitional government fighters and handed it over to Kurdish security forces in the neighborhood.[5] North Press Agency claimed that 15 civilians were injured by the Syrian government forces' use of violence.[137] After dispersing the protesters, heavy clashes erupted between Syrian transitional government fighters and Kurdish security forces stationed in Aleppo.[138][139][140][141] The UK Representation of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) claimed additionally that 50 civilians were injured by the Syrian Army's heavy artillery shelling on the neighbourhoods.[142] In a statement, the government's Ministry of Defense claimed that the operation constituted a "redeployment and repositioning," asserting that "there are no intentions for any military operations."[143] State-run Syria TV and SANA reported that one government fighter was killed and three others were injured in the clashes, while shifting responsibility to the SDF for the fighting.[144][145][36] An official Syrian source told Al Jazeera that three government fighters were killed.[37] During the fighting internet and telecommunications networks had been completely cut off. A local ceasefire agreement for the area was reached in the early hours of 7 October.[146] Following the clashes, Kurdish media reported that two civilians were killed and more than 60 others were injured, while Syrian state media claimed that one civilian was killed and five were injured.[147][148] The SOHR confirmed the death of one civilian and one government fighter.[146][28] Demonstrations were held across several Kurdish-majority cities in north and east Syria in solidarity with the residents of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh.[149] The seized armored vehicle was later returned to the Syrian transitional government by SDF forces as part of the ceasefire conditions.[5]

Violations following the ceasefire agreement

On 8 October, the SOHR reported that government forces continued to enforce a blockade on Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah despite the ceasefire agreement.[150]

On 9 October, the SDF and the Syrian transitional government exchanged accusations of provoking clashes near the Tishrin Dam. Both sides confirmed the death of one government fighter and the injury of several others.[46][38][151] That same day, some of the roads leading into Sheikh Maqsoud were reopened,[152] however vital roads between DAANES administered territory and areas controlled by the transitional government remained closed according to the SOHR.[153] In the evening, another round of clashes occurred near Deir ez-Zor. The SDF and SOHR reported the death of an SDF fighter and the injury of nine others.[20][15] Syrian state media confirmed these losses while also claiming that a Syrian Army fighter was killed and another was seriously injured as a result of the clashes.[39][43][24]

On 12 October, the SOHR reported that government forces continued its blockade of the Ithriya highway leading into DAANES territory.[154]

On 22 October, the SDF and government forces traded mortar fire near Dayr Hafir.[155]

On 25 October, clashes were reported in Abu Hamam, Deir ez-Zor.[156] Separately SDF and government fighters engaged in fighting near Makhna and Diban, Deir ez-Zor.[157]

On 29 October, the Syrian Ministry of Defense claimed that two of its soldiers were killed and another seriously injured after being allegedly targeted by SDF missile fire.[40] The SDF denied the accusation on the same day, stating that the casualties occurred during demining operations carried out by government forces in the area.[158]

November

The beginning of November remained largely calm, however, sporadic clashes occurred between the SDF and government forces in eastern Raqqa Governorate during the night of 13–14 November, with no casualties reported.[159]

On 15–16 November, clashes continued near Ghanem Ali, close to Ma'adan, involving drones as well as medium and heavy weapons,[160][161][162] leading to several government vehicles being damaged.[31][32] Reports also indicated that both sides brought in additional reinforcements, including special forces, while the SOHR reported that government reinforcements had been stationed at a school in Ma'adan.[31] DAANES-based Hawar News reported, that the SDF raised its alert level to its "highest point" following the fighting.[163]

SDF accusations of ISIS–Syrian government collaboration

On 19 November, the SDF shot down one (per SOHR)[164] or two (per SDF)[48] government-operated drones near Ghanem Ali, an area that had seen clashes during the previous week.[164] Later the same day, the SDF accused the Syrian transitional government of “coordinating with foreign ISIS [Islamic State] elements and enabling them to use their sites to conduct reconnaissance missions and drone attacks” against SDF forces.[165] The SDF also released video footage, reportedly retrieved from the shot down drone’s memory card, that appeared to show militants wearing ISIS patches preparing drones.[165][166][2] The transitional government did not respond to the allegations.[167] During the night of 19–20 November, SDF forces announced that they had launched an assault on "several sites [...] used by ISIS," lying in government controlled areas, particularly near Ghanem Ali and Ma'adan.[167][168] According to the SOHR, six government forces were killed,[29] four were wounded,[30] and three positions were captured by SDF fighters.[29] Syria’s Ministry of Defense, however, reported two soldiers killed and several wounded,[169][25] denied losing any positions,[25] and claimed that an unspecified number of SDF fighters had been killed or injured in the clashes.[25] Clashes, accompanied by artillery shelling and drone activity, continued through the night of 20 November.[170]

On 22 November, skirmishes occurred in Abu Hamam and Dayr Hafir.[171][172]

Toward the end of the month, minor skirmishes persisted along the contact line, accompanied by heightened kamikaze drone activity, which injured one Asayish member on 26 November 2025.[18][173][174]

December

Main article: December 2025 Aleppo clashes

On 22 December, the Syrian government claimed that the SDF had targeted a checkpoint in Aleppo city, injuring two civil defense personnel. This was followed by a counterstatement of the SDF alleging that a Syrian government attack wounded two members of the Asayish.[23] The SOHR supported the SDF's account.[175][176] Fighting subsequently broke out and continued into the evening, with reports of artillery shelling, heavy gunfire, and the closure of key roads in the city.[177] According to the SOHR, artillery shelling originating from Syrian government-controlled areas killed at least three civilians and injured more than 22 others, actions the organization described as possible war crimes. The SOHR also reported that one Syrian government fighter was killed.[178] Although both sides agreed to a ceasefire before midnight,[179] the SOHR stated the following day that the Kurdish neighborhoods remained under siege, with electricity and water cut off, key roads closed, and internet services disrupted.[180]

Diplomacy

SDF–Syrian transitional government

See also: Syrian peace process § Implementation and violations

In the first week of September 2025, SDF representatives met with Syrian government officials in the DAANES with the aim of restoring the March agreement and reducing tensions. The parties agreed to suspend military reinforcements, establish joint committees, and implement measures to protect civilians and promote stability.[13] Later that month the SOHR said there were "ongoing negotiations" between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government to stand down from the state of high alert.[106]

While attending a gathering in New York, Ahmad al-Sharaa warned of potential military action if the SDF did not disband, suggesting that neither Damascus nor Turkey would permit the SDF to continue operating. An intact SDF "may lead to a large-scale war" and put "Iraq and Turkey at great risk, as well as the Syrian state", he added.[181]

At the end of September, Enab Baladi said that the talks between both sides have stalled.[182] SDF spokesperson Ferhad Shami stated that the SDF, as a "military, social, political, and administrative organization," could not simply be "absorbed" into the Syrian state if the government continued to act like the former Ba'ath regime by "focusing solely on security and military matters."[182]

In October, a new round of talks between the SDF and the Syrian transitional government, scheduled to take place in Damascus under U.S. mediation, collapsed. A source close to the SDF told Al-Arabiya Al-Hadath that the Syrian transitional government had "refused to meet" with SDF officials for negotiations.[183]

On 6 October, SDF leaders met with U.S. officials, including Special Envoy Tom Barrack and CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, who led a delegation from the International Coalition.[184]

Ceasefire agreement

On 7 October, following heavy clashes between the SDF and the transitional government during the siege of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah, a delegation consisting of SDF General Commander Mazloum Abdi, Co-Chair of the Department of Foreign Relations Ilham Ahmed, and Women's Protection Units (YPJ) Commander Rojhilat Afrin met with Syrian president Ahmed al-Sharaa, Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra, and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani.[51][184]

The U.S.-backed meeting resulted in the signing of a comprehensive ceasefire agreement between both sides across "all fronts and deployment areas."[185] Defense minister Abu Qasra wrote on X that "the implementation of this agreement [would] begin immediately."[186]

Turkey

The Institute for the Study of War assessed that constant Turkish invasion rhetoric both directly threatens the SDF and encourages the Syrian government to increase political and military pressure on it.[187]

Reactions

  • United States: The National reported that the U.S. "renewed a diplomatic push to resolve critical differences between Syria's new central authorities and the [...] Syrian Democratic Forces that threaten to spark an all-out conflict [...], as violence between the two sides escalate[d]."[188]

Notes

  1. ^ The provisional government of Syria
  2. ^ 1 killed,[14] 1 killed[15]
  3. ^ 1 injured,[14] reports of additional injuries,[16] 9 injured[15]
  4. ^ 1 injured,[18] 2 injured [1]
  5. ^ 1 killed,[19] 1 killed[20]
  6. ^ 5 injured,[7] 3 injured,[21] 9 injured[20]
  7. ^ 2 injured,[22] 4 injured,[21] 2 injured[23]
  8. ^ 1 killed,[24] unspecified number killed[25]
  9. ^ 9 injured,[24] unspecified number injured[25]
  10. ^ 1 killed,[26] 1 killed,[27] 1 killed,[16] 1 killed,[28] 6 killed,[29] 1 killed[2]
  11. ^ 5 injured,[26] reports of additional injuries,[16] 4 injured[30]
  12. ^ Several vehicles damaged,[31] 1 bulldozer and another vehicle disabled[32]
  13. ^ 1 drone downed,[29] 1 drone downed,[33]
  14. ^ 1 killed,[34] 2 killed,[35] During the Siege of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah Syria TV said 1 was killed, while an official Syrian source told Al Jazeera that 3 were killed,[36][37] 1 killed,[38] 1 killed,[39] 2 killed,[40] 2 killed[25]
  15. ^ 4 injured,[41] Syria TV correspondent said "some" were injured,[42] 3 injured,[36] several injured,[38] On 10 October 2025, Syria TV said 1 was seriously injured, while the Syrian News Channel claimed 3 were injured,[43][44] 1 injured,[40] unspecified number wounded[25]
  16. ^ 1 killed,[45] 1 killed[46]
  17. ^ 3 injured,[47] several injured[20]
  18. ^ 1 drone downed,[47], 2 drones downed[48]
  19. ^ Also known as AANES
  20. ^ Also known as March agreement

References

  1. ^ a b c "Iran Update, September 19, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 19 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  2. ^ a b c "SDF warns of ISIS regrouping via Damascus links". The Jerusalem Post. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  3. ^ "SDF foils 3 infiltration attempts in Deir Hafer". Hawar News. 4 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i Davison, John; Qereman, Orhan; Ashawi, Khalil; Dalatey, Feras; Davison, John (19 September 2025). "Syria risks rupturing as armed camps face off across the Euphrates". Reuters. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  5. ^ a b c "Leader in Internal Security: Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh roads closed despite agreement, vehicle handover". Hawar News. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  6. ^ a b c "Aleppo – SDF and Turkish-backed factions exchange shelling". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 10 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  7. ^ a b c "SDF blame armed groups linked to government for attack in eastern Syria". The National News. 25 August 2025. Retrieved 25 August 2025.
  8. ^ "A large military convoy of SDF forces, including commando units, has departed from the town of Abu Hammam in eastern rural Deir ez-Zor, heading towards the city of Deir Hafir in rural Aleppo". Radio Free Syria on Facebook. 3 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
  9. ^ "Afrin Liberation Forces are currently operating in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods against the Syrian transitional government. Video recorded by an ALF fighter". Kurdish Front News on Telegram. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  10. ^ "Clashes Between Syrian Ministry of Defense Forces and the SDF in Deir Ezzor, Eastern Syria". Enab Baladi. 14 August 2025. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  11. ^ a b "Growing tension two weeks on – Damascus government forces send military reinforcement to frontlines with SDF in eastern Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 4 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
  12. ^ a b c d "Syrian tribe declares mobilization against SDF in eastern Deir Ezzor after killing of young man". Enab Baladi. 11 September 2025. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  13. ^ a b c d Lappin, Yaakov (15 September 2025). "The West's Abandonment of the Syrian Kurds and its Geopolitical Implications". Alma Research and Education Center. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  14. ^ a b c "Affected by injuries sustained in attack with two kamikaze drones on military post – SDF fighter dies in eastern Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 24 September 2025. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  15. ^ a b c "Drone attack - Member of "SDF" kil*led and more than ten injured including civilians in Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 10 October 2025.
  16. ^ a b c d "Security tension – SDF sniper killed 'National Army' member in eastern Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 24 September 2025. Retrieved 25 September 2025.
  17. ^ a b c d "Following clashes on Euphrates river bank – SDF launch arrest and inspection campaign in Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 16 August 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  18. ^ a b "Drone attack - Asayish member wounded in Sheikh Maqsoud and Al-Ashrafiyah, Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 26 November 2025. Retrieved 7 December 2025.
  19. ^ a b "SDF says one fighter killed in northern Syria clashes with Damascus-affiliated forces". The New Region. 24 September 2025. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  20. ^ a b c d "QSD: Kämpfer bei Angriff in Deir ez-Zor getötet" [SDF: Fighter killed in attack in Deir ez-Zor]. ANF News (in German). 10 October 2025. Retrieved 10 October 2025.
  21. ^ a b c "SDF condemns Damascus-backed militants' attacks in Deir Hafir". Hawar News. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  22. ^ a b c "Syria denies attacks on Kurdish neighborhoods in Aleppo". Rudaw. 13 August 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  23. ^ a b "Syria, SDF trade blame for Aleppo clashes". The New Region. Retrieved 22 December 2025.
  24. ^ a b c "قصف واشتباكات.. توتر بين قوات الدفاع السورية و"قسد" شرقي دير الزو" [Shelling and clashes...tension between the Syrian Defense Forces and the SDF east of Deir ez-Zor]. Syria TV. 10 October 2025. Retrieved 10 October 2025.
  25. ^ a b c d e f g "مقتل جنديين من الجيش السوري وإصابة آخرين في هجوم شنته قسد بريف الرقة" [Two Syrian army soldiers were killed and others wounded in an attack launched by the SDF in the Raqqa countryside.]. Syria TV. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  26. ^ a b c d "Sneak attempt – Three injuries among the "National Army" in Al-Sheikh Maksoud". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 22 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  27. ^ a b "Escalating tension – "National Army" militiaman killed by SDF snipers in eastern Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 24 September 2025. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  28. ^ a b "Dea*th toll update - Civilian and security member kil*led in Aleppo amid alarming calm". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 8 October 2025.
  29. ^ a b c d "Amid exchange of accusations and escalating drone attacks - Fierce clashes leave six fatalities among governmental forces in Al-Raqqah countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  30. ^ a b "هدوء حذر إثر استعادة "قسد" السيطرة على ثلاث نقاط خلال اشتباكات مع القوات الحكومية والمجموعات الخليقة في ريف الرقة" [A cautious calm prevails after the SDF regained control of three points during clashes with government forces and allied groups in the Raqqa countryside.]. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (in Arabic). 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  31. ^ a b c "Hours after cautious calm - Clashes renewed in Al-Raqqah countryside amid military reinforcement by SDF and government forces". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 16 November 2025. Retrieved 16 November 2025.
  32. ^ a b "بالتزامن مع اشتباكات على محور غانم العلي.. "قسد" تستهدف آليات للقوات الحكومية في معدان بريف الرقة" [Simultaneously with clashes on the Ghanem al-Ali axis, the SDF targeted government forces' vehicles in Maadan, in the Raqqa countryside.]. The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights (in Arabic). 17 November 2025. Retrieved 17 November 2025.
  33. ^ "The SDF shot down a drone belonging to Turkish-backed factions on the Tishrin Dam axis". SOHR (in Arabic). 30 November 2025. Retrieved 30 November 2025.
  34. ^ a b "Syrian soldier killed in clashes with SDF in Aleppo, state news agency says". Reuters. 12 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  35. ^ a b "Two Syrian soldiers martyred in SDF attacks in Aleppo countryside". Syrian Arab News Agency. 25 September 2025. Retrieved 25 September 2025.
  36. ^ a b c "One member of the Internal Security Forces was killed and three others were injured in violent clashes between the army and the SDF in Aleppo". Syria TV. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  37. ^ a b "اشتباكات عنيفة في حلب بين الجيش السوري وقسد تخلّف ضحايا" [Violent clashes in Aleppo between the Syrian army and the SDF leave casualties.]. الجزيرة نت (in Arabic). 6 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  38. ^ a b c "Defense Ministry: SDF Violates Ceasefire Agreement, Targets Army eastern Aleppo - SANA". 9 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  39. ^ a b Noonan, Fiona (10 October 2025). "Iran Update, October 10, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. Retrieved 11 October 2025.
  40. ^ a b c "SDF forces target a Syrian Arab Army position near Tishreen Dam with guided missile". Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). 29 October 2025. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  41. ^ a b "Syrian government, Kurdish-led SDF trade blame over northern Syria attack". Al Jazeera. 2 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  42. ^ a b c "Clashes break out in Deir az-Zour between Syria govt troops, SDF". The New Arab. Archived from the original on 16 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  43. ^ a b "One SDF fighter killed, 9 injured in attack blamed on Damascus". The New Region. 10 October 2025. Retrieved 10 October 2025.
  44. ^ "A military source told Al-Ikhbariya: Three army personnel were injured in SDF shelling in the Deir ez-Zor countryside". Syrian News Channel (in Arabic). 10 October 2025. Retrieved 12 October 2025.
  45. ^ a b "Syria: Government casualties in Aleppo clashes". Shafaq News. 22 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  46. ^ a b "Foiling an Infiltration Attempt by Damascus Government Gunmen in the Tishreen Dam Countryside". SDF Press. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  47. ^ a b c d "3 fighters of Transitional govt injured in Aleppo Clash". ANHA. 22 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  48. ^ a b "SDF downs drones, strikes ISIS positions in Raqqa countryside". North Press Agency. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  49. ^ "Building Syria's new army: Future plans and the challenges ahead". Middle East Institute. 12 June 2025. Retrieved 8 October 2025.
  50. ^ a b c d e f g Sharawi, Ahmad (14 August 2025). "Stalled Syria-SDF Deal Risks Sparking Wider Conflict". Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Retrieved 31 August 2025.
  51. ^ a b "SDF–government talks kick off in Damascus under US sponsorship". Shafaq News. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  52. ^ a b "Dramatic escalation – Ten people killed, wounded and kidnapped in attack on SDF members in Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 14 August 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  53. ^ a b "Armed attack targets SDF in Deir Ezzor, eastern Syria". Enab Baladi. 20 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  54. ^ a b "Syrian soldier killed in clashes between government forces and SDF in Aleppo, state news agency says". Arab News. 12 August 2025. Archived from the original on 12 August 2025. Retrieved 24 December 2025.
  55. ^ Frantzman, Seth (15 April 2025). "Syrian government, SDF, and other factions move to end tensions over strategic dam". FDD's Long War Journal. Archived from the original on 15 April 2025. Retrieved 24 December 2025.
  56. ^ a b c d e Giustozzi, Antonio (25 September 2025). "Unite and rule: Syria to hold first parliamentary elections since fall of Assad as tensions with minorities persist". The Insider (in Russian). Retrieved 29 September 2025.
  57. ^ "Syria backs out of Paris talks with Kurdish-led fighters: State TV". Al Jazeera. 9 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  58. ^ "Damascus rejects Paris talks with Kurdish-led forces, casting doubt on integration deal". The Arab Weekly. 10 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  59. ^ "Negotiations between NE, Syria and Damascus stalled amid external pressure". Hawar News Agency. 30 August 2025. Wikidata Q136030285. Archived from the original on 30 August 2025.
  60. ^ a b "Iran Update, August 12, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 13 August 2025. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  61. ^ a b "Renewed Fighting Between Kurds and Government Forces Threatens Syria's Unity". FDD. 16 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  62. ^ "Iran Update, August 13, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 14 August 2025. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  63. ^ a b Botobekov, Uran (31 October 2025). "Syria's Foreign Fighters: Strategic Asset or Looming Threat?". Homeland Security Today. Retrieved 15 October 2025.
  64. ^ "Syrian National Army (SNA)". European Union Agency for Asylum. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  65. ^ "UN urges thorough screening of militants joining Syrian army". Rudaw. 15 May 2025. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  66. ^ ""We Will Kill You Wherever You Go": Violations Committed during SNA-Led Operation Dawn of Freedom". Syrians for Truth and Justice. 9 May 2025. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  67. ^ "Syria: New investigation reveals evidence government and affiliated forces extrajudicially executed dozens of Druze people in Suwayda". Amnesty International. 2 September 2025. Archived from the original on 3 September 2025. Retrieved 13 September 2025.
  68. ^ a b "Iran Update, August 11, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 12 August 2025. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  69. ^ "North Syria's "Unity of Communities" conference urges new constitution, decentralized system". North Press Agency. 8 August 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  70. ^ a b "Druze and Alawite Leaders Endorse Decentralized Syria, Sparking Fierce Rebuke from Damascus". Kurdistan24. 9 August 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  71. ^ "Syrian government aligns with Turkey's opposition to Kurdish autonomy". Medya News. 28 April 2025. Retrieved 24 October 2025.
  72. ^ "Old regime tactics – Syrian government cuts off fuel to Sheikh Maqsoud and Al-Ashrafiyah for 15 days". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 14 July 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  73. ^ "Kurdish neighborhoods Council in Aleppo Seek to Defuse Tensions with Damascus". Kurdistan24. 12 August 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  74. ^ Shelton, Jon (23 August 2025). "Syria delays election in Sweida and Kurdish areas". Deutsche Welle. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  75. ^ "Syria delays parliamentary vote in Sweida after attacks | The Jerusalem Post". The Jerusalem Post. 23 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  76. ^ "AANES: Elections are not democratic and do not reflect Syrian people will". Hawar News Agency. 24 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  77. ^ Haid, Haid (27 August 2025). "Tribal Mobilization Threatens Northeast Syria: Sweida as a Cautionary Tale". Arab Reform Initiative.
  78. ^ "Heavy Clashes Erupt Between Syrian Democratic Forces and Damascus-Backed Units in Eastern Aleppo". Kurdistan24. 11 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  79. ^ "Dramatic escalation – Ten people killed, wounded and kidnapped in attack on SDF members in Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 14 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  80. ^ "Amid reports about launching arrest campaign – SDF members deployed in several areas in eastern Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 15 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  81. ^ "Security movements and military reinforcements in vicinity of Al-Sheikh Maqsoud and Al-Ashrafiyah in Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 11 August 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  82. ^ "Iran Update, September 2, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 2 September 2025. Retrieved 2 October 2025.
  83. ^ "Iran Update, August 12, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 12 August 2025. Archived from the original on 25 March 2022. Retrieved 13 August 2025.
  84. ^ "AANES rejects Damascus decision to exclude Kurdish areas from elections". The New Region. 24 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  85. ^ a b "Aleppo – Violent clashes erupt between members of Syrian army and others of SDF". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 20 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  86. ^ "Syria's Kurdish-led SDF, government forces clash in Aleppo province". Al Jazeera. 4 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  87. ^ "State-affiliated factions, Kurdish-led forces clash again in northern Syria". Rudaw. 4 August 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  88. ^ Easter, Reagan (4 August 2025). "Violence Resurges in Syria After Armed Groups, Kurdish-Led SDF, Clash With Government Forces". Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  89. ^ "Syrian Defense Ministry: Dead and injured in SDF shelling east of Aleppo". Enab Baladi. 11 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  90. ^ "Reinforcements – Damascus government forces and SDF support positions along frontlines in Al-Raqqah and Aleppo countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 13 August 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  91. ^ "Deadly Clashes and Abductions in Deir ez-Zor as Tensions Escalate Between SDF and Damascus". Kurdistan24. 14 August 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  92. ^ "تحديث – قواتنا تتصدى لهجوم نفذته مجموعات مسلحة تابعة لحكومة دمشق بريف دير الزور". SDF Press. 24 August 2025. Retrieved 24 August 2025.
  93. ^ "Damascus Reports Clashes with SDF, Which Denies Involvement". The Syrian Observer. 1 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  94. ^ Iddon, Paul (28 September 2025). "The Kurdish-Led SDF Is Still Combating ISIS In Syria Every Day". Forbes. Retrieved 29 September 2025.
  95. ^ "Turkey-Backed Militias Accused of Abuses in Northern Syria, Rights Group Urges Accountability from New Government". The Syrian Observer. 14 May 2025. Retrieved 15 August 2025.
  96. ^ Violations against civilians in Coastal and Western Central Syria in January – March 2025 (PDF). Human Rights Council. 2025. p. 16.
  97. ^ "SDF clashes with Syrian forces in Deir ez-Zor". Shafaq News. 14 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  98. ^ "Dangerous escalation on the Euphrates as SDF and Syrian government clashes continue". Syriac Press. 14 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  99. ^ "Tension grows at Al-Asharah crossing – Limited clashes erupt between Damascus government forces and SDF in eastern Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 14 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  100. ^ "SDF: Ministry of Defense Kills Civilians in Om Tina... Then Kills Truth". Hawar News Agency. 21 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  101. ^ "Syrian pro-government fighters hit SDF position in Aleppo". Shafaq News. 20 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  102. ^ "Syria, SDF trade accusations over Aleppo "massacre"". Shafaq News. 21 September 2025. Retrieved 21 September 2025.
  103. ^ "Military escalation – SDF and government forces brought military reinforcements to Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 21 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  104. ^ "Military escalation – Infant dies affected by his injuries, bringing the number of deaths due to massacre in Deir Hafer to eight people". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 22 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  105. ^ "Internal Security Forces thwart assault on Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh". ANHA. 22 September 2025. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
  106. ^ a b "Aleppo – Ministry of Defence reaches agreement with SDF to release soldiers of Syrian army". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 23 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  107. ^ "Syrian government shelling – Four children wounded in Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 23 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  108. ^ "Syrian army, SDF trade strikes again in Aleppo". Shafaq News. 23 September 2025. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  109. ^ "Turkish reinforcements – Highway between Aleppo and Al-Raqqa and roads leading to Deir Hafer closed". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 27 September 2025. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  110. ^ "Aleppo | SDF drone attacks two military posts of Turkish-backed faction in eastern countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 28 September 2025. Retrieved 29 September 2025.
  111. ^ "The Damascus-SDF agreement two months on: Fragile progress or delayed collapse?". Middle East Institute. 9 May 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  112. ^ "SDF Commander details Tishrin Dam agreement, Syrian political talks". North Press Agency. 13 April 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  113. ^ "Kurds in Aleppo condemns pro-gov't factions for violating March 10 deal". North Press Agency. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  114. ^ "Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafiyah's General Council calls on transitional govt to abide by its pledges". Hawar News. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  115. ^ "Residents of Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh: Transitional government continues violations". Hawar News. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  116. ^ "Amid ongoing blocking of Deir Hafer highway – Governmental Forces establish military post in Al-Ashrafiyah and erect soil barriers in Layramoun". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  117. ^ "Foiled infiltration – Artillery shelling follows drone strike near Tishreen Dam". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  118. ^ "SDF claims Damascus-affiliated forces targeting Tishrin Dam with heavy weapons". The New Region. 1 October 2025. Retrieved 1 October 2025.
  119. ^ "Military escalation – Damascus Government forces and SDF exchange shelling in Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 5 October 2025.
  120. ^ "Second time today – Forces of Syrian government shell frontline of Deir Hafer and Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 5 October 2025.
  121. ^ "Amid growing tensions – Civilian injured in drone attack in eastern Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  122. ^ a b "Battles erupt between Syrian forces and SDF in eastern Aleppo". Shafaq News. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  123. ^ "For unknown reasons – Al-Raqqah-Athariyah highway surprisingly blocked". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 5 October 2025.
  124. ^ "For unknown reasons – Damascus government closes Al-Raqqah- Ma'adan road". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 5 October 2025.
  125. ^ "Damascus shuts 'vital arteries' linking Rojava to Syrian interior: Sources". Rudaw. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 5 October 2025.
  126. ^ "🔴 Breaking – Intense SDF Clashes in Deir Hafer as Fighting Escalates Across Eastern Aleppo". www.profilenews.com. 5 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  127. ^ "Iran Update, October 7, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  128. ^ a b "After today's explosion – Damascus authorities close entrances to Al-Sheikh Maqsoud and Al-Ashrafiyah neighborhoods in Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  129. ^ Khalaf, Mahmoud (6 October 2025). "Die Schließung der Zugänge zu Sheikh Maqsoud und Ashrafieh in Aleppo löst öffentliche Proteste aus" [The closure of the access roads to Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh in Aleppo triggers public protests]. TESAA (in German). Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  130. ^ Osten-Sacken, Thomas von der (6 October 2025). "Syrische Sicherheitskräfte belagern kurdische Stadtviertel in Aleppo" [Syrian security forces besiege the Kurdish district in Aleppo]. jungle.world (in German). Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  131. ^ "Protests erupted in Kurdish neighborhoods of Aleppo following calls by the Ashrafiya and Sheikh Maqsoud councils, as residents challenged Public Security checkpoints despite warning shots fired to disperse them. Demonstrators are demanding an end to the blockade". Wladimir Van Wilgenburg on X. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  132. ^ "Following closure of entrances to Al-Sheikh Maqsoud by government forces – Dozens of people go out in protests". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  133. ^ "Damascus-aligned forces crack down on Kurdish protesters in Aleppo". Rudaw. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  134. ^ "Residents of Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh protest road closures". Hawar News. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  135. ^ "Dozens suffocate as tear gas fired at protesters in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh". Hawar News. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  136. ^ "Growing tension – General Security forces fire tear gas to disperse protesters in Al-Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhood". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  137. ^ "15 injured in Aleppo protests over neighborhood access closures". North Press Agency. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  138. ^ "Gunfire heard in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh after escalating clashes between protesters and Syrian government forces". North Press Agency on X. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  139. ^ "Fighting breaks out between Syrian forces and armed groups in Aleppo". Türkiye Today. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  140. ^ "پێکدادانی سەخت لە نێوان هێزەکانی دیمەشق و هاوڵاتیان لە گەڕەکی شێخ مەقسودی کوردنشین لە حەلەب" [Heavy clashes between Damascus forces and civilians in the Kurdish neighborhood of Sheikh Maqsood in Aleppo]. Channel 8 on X. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  141. ^ "Heavy clashes break out between Syrian and Kurdish forces in Aleppo". Al Arabiya English. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  142. ^ "URGENT: Heavy artillery is being used tonight against civilians in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh, Aleppo – over 50 people reportedly wounded. We call on @FCDOGovUK to act immediately to help end the bombardment and lift the siege". Syrian Democratic Council UK on X. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  143. ^ "Syrian Interim Govt Forces attack Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafieh, claim "Redeployment"". Hawar News. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  144. ^ "SDF attack in Aleppo city kills one security officer, wounds civilians". SANA. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  145. ^ "The Ministry of Defense denies any intention to launch military operations and affirms its commitment to the March agreement". Syria TV. 6 October 2025. Retrieved 6 October 2025.
  146. ^ a b "Following clashes and escalation after withdrawal of general security forces – Tense calm prevails in two neighbourhoods in Aleppo city". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  147. ^ "What happened yesterday in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafiyeh neighborhoods?". Hawar News. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  148. ^ "The Syrian Civil Defense announces the death toll from the shelling and clashes in Aleppo". Syria TV. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  149. ^ "Syrian government forces clash with Kurdish Asayish in Aleppo". The New Region. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  150. ^ "Despite de-escalation agreement - Siege still imposed on Al-Ashrafiyah and Al-Sheikh Maqsoud neighborhoods". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 8 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  151. ^ "Iran Update, October 9, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 10 October 2025.
  152. ^ "Reopening of 3 roads leading to Sheikh Maqsood- Ashrafiyah neighborhoods in Aleppo". Hawar News. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  153. ^ "Amid ongoing closure of vital crossings - Humanitarian crisis escalates in N and E Syria". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 9 October 2025. Retrieved 9 October 2025.
  154. ^ "Ongoing blocking of Athariya highway exacerbates humanitarian crisis in SDF-controlled areas". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 12 October 2025. Retrieved 13 October 2025.
  155. ^ "Ceasefire violations - Governmental forces and SDF trade mortar fire on Deir Hafer frontline". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 22 October 2025. Retrieved 22 October 2025.
  156. ^ "Renewed clashes between Syrian army and SDF in Deir Ezzor". Enab Baladi. 26 October 2025. Retrieved 26 October 2025.
  157. ^ "Iran Update, October 27, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 27 October 2025. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  158. ^ "We Deny Targeting a Syrian Government Military Position near Tishreen Dam; The Incident Resulted from Landmine Explosion". SDF Press. 29 October 2025. Retrieved 29 October 2025.
  159. ^ "Al-Raqqah - Sporadic clashes erupt between SDF and Ministry of Defence forces on frontlines in eastern countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 14 November 2025. Retrieved 14 November 2025.
  160. ^ "With heavy weapons - Clashes erupt between members of the Ministry of Defence and SDF in eastern Al-Raqqah countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 15 November 2025. Retrieved 15 November 2025.
  161. ^ "Al-Raqqa - Clashes erupt between "SDF" and "Syrian Government" on the frontlines". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 15 November 2025. Retrieved 15 November 2025.
  162. ^ "Second round in 24 hours - Clashes renew between SDF and transitional government forces in Al-Raqqah". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 16 November 2025. Retrieved 16 November 2025.
  163. ^ "Cautious calm prevails east of Raqqa, SDF raises its alert level". Hawar News. 16 November 2025. Retrieved 16 November 2025.
  164. ^ a b "After attacking security checkpoint - "SDF" shoots down drone of government forces in Al-Raqqa". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 19 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  165. ^ a b "SDF shoots down two ISIS drones, accuses Syrian Forces of aiding the group". Shafaq News. 19 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  166. ^ "SDF accuses Damascus-affiliated factions of enabling ISIS drone attacks". Rudaw. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  167. ^ a b "Two Syrian soldiers killed in clashes with SDF in Raqqa". Shafaq News. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  168. ^ "Damascus, SDF trade blame over Raqqa violence, ISIS drone attacks". Rudaw. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  169. ^ "Two Syrian soldiers killed in clashes with SDF, ministry says". Reuters. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 20 November 2025.
  170. ^ "After tense calm that lasted for hours - Governmental forces attack SDF positions on Ghanem Al-Ali frontline in Al-Raqqah countryside". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 20 November 2025. Retrieved 21 November 2025.
  171. ^ "SDF, Damascus-aligned groups clash in Aleppo and Deir ez-Zor". Shafaq News. 22 November 2025. Retrieved 23 November 2025.
  172. ^ "Deir Ezzor - Clashes and exchanged attacks take place between Government forces and "SDF"". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 22 November 2025. Retrieved 23 November 2025.
  173. ^ "Renewed tensions - Government drone targets vehicle east Aleppo". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 25 November 2025. Retrieved 7 December 2025.
  174. ^ "Military escalation - Exchanged attacks take place between Syrian Government Forces and "SDF" in Deir Ezzor". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 24 November 2025. Retrieved 7 December 2025.
  175. ^ "جرحى من الأمن الداخلي بهجوم مسلح على حاجز مشترك في مدينة حلب". Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (in Arabic). 22 December 2025. Retrieved 22 December 2025.
  176. ^ "اندلاع اشتباكات بين قوات الحكومة المؤقتة و"الأسايش" في حلب". Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (in Arabic). 22 December 2025. Retrieved 22 December 2025.
  177. ^ "قذائف من أسلحة ثقيلة وهاون تسقط على حيي الشيخ مقصود والأشرفية بالتزامن مع استمرار الاشتباكات بين الطرفين". المرصد السوري لحقوق الإنسان (in Arabic). 22 December 2025. Retrieved 22 December 2025.
  178. ^ "استهداف المدنيين في أحياء حلب بالأسلحة الثقيلة جريمة حرب يجب التحقيق فيها". المرصد السوري لحقوق الإنسان (in Arabic). 23 December 2025. Retrieved 23 December 2025.
  179. ^ "Syrian army, Kurdish-led SDF agree to stop deadly fighting in Aleppo". Al Jazeera. 23 December 2025. Retrieved 23 December 2025.
  180. ^ "Following fierce clashes | Electricity, water and internet service interrupted in Sheikh Maqsoud and Al-Ashrafiyah neighbourhoods in Aleppo city". The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights. 23 December 2025. Retrieved 23 December 2025.
  181. ^ Oweis, Khaled Yacoub (24 September 2025). "Military pressure on Syrian Kurdish militia in Aleppo increases as Al Shara warns of war". The National. Retrieved 24 September 2025.
  182. ^ a b "SDF Doubts Syrian Army's Ability to Absorb Its Forces". Enab Baladi. 26 September 2025. Retrieved 28 September 2025.
  183. ^ "SDF Reports Repelling Multiple Assaults by Syrian Government Forces". Kurdistan24. 4 October 2025. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
  184. ^ a b "Meeting between DAA's delegation, transitional govt kicks off in Damascus". Hawar News. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  185. ^ "Syria, SDF reach full ceasefire after Damascus talks". Shafaq News. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  186. ^ "Syrian Defense Minister Announces Comprehensive Ceasefire with SDF". SANA. 7 October 2025. Retrieved 7 October 2025.
  187. ^ "Iran Update, September 15, 2025". Institute for the Study of War. 15 September 2025. Retrieved 23 September 2025.
  188. ^ Oweis, Khaled Yacoub. "US renews push to avert all-out conflict between Syria's Kurds and Damascus". The National. Retrieved 22 September 2025.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=SDF–Syrian_transitional_government_clashes_(2025–present)&oldid=1329489810"